Solar module racking system

ABSTRACT

A solar module racking system including a frame. The frame includes pre-wired receptacles for rapid assembly of solar modules. The frame receives and mechanically supports each solar module. The frame arranges the solar modules in a first planar direction, in a second planar direction, and in a vertical direction that is normal to the first and second planar directions. Each pre-wired receptacles individually and electrically connect each of the solar modules after insertion of that module into the frame. The solar module racking system provides a 2 by 1 by 1 configuration or a 1 by 2 by 1 configuration for the plurality of solar modules corresponding to the first planar direction, the second planar direction, and the vertical direction. A first module and a second module are arranged in the first planar direction or the second planar direction, respectively.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No.17/841,239, entitled “SOLAR MODULE RACKING SYSTEM”, filed on Jun. 15,2022, which claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.63/211,262, entitled “MODULAR SOLAR SYSTEM”, filed on Jun. 16, 2021,which are hereby incorporated by reference as if set forth in full inthis application for all purposes.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The disclosure herein is related to solar power generation by a modularsolar system. More particularly, the disclosure herein include solarmodule racking system for solar power generation.

BACKGROUND

Currently, there are no economically viable techniques for conventionalphotovoltaic solar cells to achieve power conversion efficienciesgreater than 25%. As a result, at least 75% of the sun's energy hittingearth's surface is unused.

SUMMARY

According to one or more embodiments, a solar module racking systemincluding a frame. The frame includes a plurality of pre-wiredreceptacles for rapid assembly of a plurality of solar modules. Theframe receives and mechanically supports each module of the plurality ofsolar modules. The frame arranges the plurality of solar modules in afirst planar direction, in a second planar direction, and in a verticaldirection that is normal to the first and second planar directions. Eachof plurality of pre-wired receptacles individually and electricallyconnect each of the plurality of solar modules after insertion of thatmodule into the frame. The solar module racking system provides at leasta 2 by 1 by 1 configuration or a 1 by 2 by 1 configuration for theplurality of solar modules corresponding to the first planar direction,the second planar direction, and the vertical direction. A first moduleand a second module are arranged in the first planar direction or thesecond planar direction, respectively.

According to one or more embodiments, a solar module racking systemincluding a frame. The frame includes a plurality of pre-wiredreceptacles for rapid assembly of a plurality of solar modules. Theframe receives and mechanically supports each module of the plurality ofsolar modules. The frame arranges the plurality of solar modules in afirst planar direction, in a second planar direction, and in a verticaldirection that is normal to the first and second planar directions. Eachof plurality of pre-wired receptacles individually and electricallyconnect each of the plurality of solar modules after insertion of thatmodule into the frame. The solar module racking system provides at leasta 1 by 1 by 2 configuration for the plurality of solar modulescorresponding to the first planar direction, the second planardirection, and the vertical direction where at least a first module anda second module are arranged and mechanically stacked in the verticaldirection.

Additional features and advantages are realized through the techniquesof the present disclosure. Other embodiments and aspects of thedisclosure are described in detail herein. For a better understanding ofthe disclosure with the advantages and the features, refer to thedescription and to the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more detailed understanding may be had from the following description,given by way of example in conjunction with the accompanying drawings,wherein like reference numerals in the figures indicate like elements,and wherein:

FIG. 1 depicts a system according to one or more embodiments;

FIG. 2 depicts examples of a system according to one or moreembodiments;

FIG. 3 depicts a system according to one or more embodiments;

FIG. 4 depicts a graph according to one or more embodiments;

FIG. 5 depicts a configuration example of a system according to one ormore embodiments;

FIG. 6 depicts examples of a system according to one or moreembodiments;

FIG. 7 depicts an environment according to one or more embodiments;

FIG. 8 depicts modules according to one or more embodiments;

FIG. 9 depicts a system according to one or more embodiments;

FIG. 10 depicts a configuration example of a system according to one ormore embodiments;

FIGS. 11A-11D depict details views of a wiring of a solar module rackingsystem for solar power generation according to one or more embodiments;

FIG. 12 depicts wiring diagrams a solar module racking system for solarpower generation according to one or more embodiments;

FIG. 13 depicts views of a solar module racking system for solar powergeneration according to one or more embodiments;

FIG. 14 depicts views of a solar module racking system for solar powergeneration according to one or more embodiments

FIG. 15 depicts a frame according to one or more embodiments;

FIG. 16 depicts a diagram of a frame, as well as a module loadingoperation of inserting one or more modules in to the frame, according toone or more embodiments;

FIG. 17 depicts a system according to one or more embodiments; and

FIG. 18 depicts a system according to one or more embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Disclosed herein is a modular solar system. More particularly, themodular solar system relates to a solar module racking system for solarpower generation that stacks multiple transparent solar modules within aframework/cartridge to absorb different solar energy as sunlight passesthrough levels of the framework/cartridge. Further, theframework/cartridge is one of a plurality of frameworks/cartridges thatare coupled and/or placed within one or more frames. The modular solarsystem can be connected to a load, such as a power grid, to providesolar power generated by the transparent solar modules thereto.According to one or more technical effects, advantages, and benefits,the modular solar system achieves an overall solar power conversionefficiency per square meter that is greater than the 25% of conventionalphotovoltaic solar cells.

FIG. 1 depicts a system 100 according to one or more embodiments. Thesystem 100 is an example of the solar module racking system as describedherein. The diagram of FIG. 1 is oriented according to an X1-X2 axis, aY1-Y2 axis, and Z1-X2 axis. The X1-X2 axis, as represented as adot/circle, is generally oriented into and out of the page or normal toa Y-Z plane. The Y1-Y2 axis is generally oriented in a direction normalto an X-Z plane. The Z1-Z2 axis is generally oriented in a directionnormal to an X-Y plane. The X1 direction is opposite the X2 direction,the Y1 direction is opposite the Y2 direction, and the Z1 direction isopposite the Z2 direction. Other orientations can be made in accordancewith these axes, which may be tilted or angled. References to a side ora surface of a component can be described in accordance with these axes.For instance, a reference to a lower or bottom side or a downwardlyfacing surface of a component described may be referred to as a Z2 sideor a Z2 surface.

The system 100 receives, from at least a sun 101 (from the Y1-Z1direction), light energy or light 102. The light 102 can be consideredincident light or natural light (though other sources are contemplated).The system 100 receives the light 102 at a plurality of solar modules105. The system 100 includes a frame 110 (e.g., a framework or stackingstructure), a beam arrangement 120, a post 130, and a cap 140.

The frame 110 can include a plurality of pre-wired receptacles for rapidassembly of the plurality of solar modules. The frame 110 can receiveand mechanically support each module of the plurality of solar modules105 upon insertion of that module into the frame 110. The frame 110 canreceive and individually electrically connect each module of theplurality of solar modules 105 upon insertion into a correspondingpre-wired receptacle. Example of mechanical stacking includes, but arenot limited to, horizontal stacking, parallel stacking with a plane of ahorizon (i.e., flat to the earth), and parallel stacking with a plane ofan array (i.e., design determined).

The frame 110 is configured to arrange the plurality of solar modules105 in a first planar direction (e.g., the X1-X2 axis), in a secondplanar direction (e.g., the Y1-Y2 axis), and/or in a vertical direction(e.g., the Z1-Z2 axis) that is normal to the first and second planardirections. The system 100 can provide at least a 2 by 1 by 1configuration for the plurality of solar modules 105, where at least afirst module and a second module are arranged in the first planardirection. The frame 110 can mechanically support and stack at least athird module of the plurality of solar modules 105 with one of the firstor second modules in the vertical direction. According to one or moreembodiments, the frame 110 can include L-channel supports with wiremanagement. The frame 110 can receive a top loading of the plurality ofsolar modules 105. The system 100 can include a reflective module/layerbelow the frame 110, as part of the frame 110, and/or as a module withinthe frame 110. At least one of the plurality of solar modules 105 caninclude at least one solar cell configured to convert at least part ofthe unconverted portions of the light 102 into electricity.

According to one or more embodiments, and as further described herein,the frame 110 can include one or more arms configured to minimizeinternal shading onto the plurality of solar modules 105. Further, theframe 110 can includes a slot and shelving system, a rail clamp system,a snap button and slot system, and/or a tracking system for receivingthe plurality of solar modules 105. Furthermore, the frame 110 caninclude a perimeter mold along an outer edge of the each of the at leasttwo mechanically stacked solar modules 105, each perimeter moldconfigured to stack with an adjacent perimeter mold. The frame 110 canbe sealed on a perimeter of the at least two mechanically stacked solarmodules 105 by a gap filler and a glue. The frame 110 can be sealed on aperimeter of the at least two mechanically stacked solar modules 105 bya screen, a water tight membrane, or an air filter.

The beam arrangement 120 can include at least one beam to support theframe 110. The beam arrangement 120 can also support a plurality of theframes 110 to provide at least a 2 by 2 by 1 configuration for theplurality of solar modules 105. The at least one beam of the beamarrangement 120 can be square beams, round beams, I-beams, or otherstructural member with variable angles. According to one or moreembodiments, the beam arrangement 120 can include C-channel supportswith wire management.

The post 130 mounted to a surface (i.e., a ground 131). The post 130 canbe a square beam, round pipe, channel member, or I-beam fixed to,mounted on, and/or partially buried in the ground or other surface. Thecap 140 can be mechanically coupled to the post 130 and configured toaccept the beam arrangement. The cap 140 can be a post cap for the post130, and include a U-bracket set to an angle from the post 130 as shownin FIG. 1 .

FIG. 2 depicts examples of a system 200 according to one or moreembodiments. Note that, by way of example in conjunction with the otherdrawings, like reference numerals in the figures indicate like elementsand will not be reintroduced for brevity. The system 200 is shown from aperspective view and a front view through side walls thereof.Additionally, an alternative illustration of the system 200 is depictedas system 201 (without any solar modules 105 therein). The system 200includes the frame 110 including one or more arms 216 and one or moreholders 217. The system 200 also includes one or more fasteners 218(e.g., cotter pins and/or screws), a conduit 223 inside a beam 224within the beam arrangement 120, and one or more straps 225.

The one or more holders 217 secure the one or more arms 216 in place.The one or more holders 217 can be secured by the fasteners 218 to thearms 218 and to the beam arrangement 120. The beam arrangement 120 canbe one or more beams or at least the one beam 224. The beam arrangement720 supports the one or more frames 110 that further support one or moresolar modules 105 as discussed herein. In this regard, the one or moresolar modules 105 can be mounted within the arms 216 of the system 200of FIG. 2 , so that the one or more solar modules 105 are mechanicallystacked in an adjacent and/or proximate configuration.

The strap 225 can be adjustable to keep the beam arrangement 120 or thebeam 224 in place on the cap 130. The conduit 223 can house electricalwiring, such as strings as described herein. According to one or moreembodiments, the beam arrangement 120 can provide a C-channel supportwith wire management (e.g., conduit 223), such that electrical wiringcan be placed directly in the conduit 223.

According to one or more embodiments, the system 200 secures amechanical stacking of the solar modules 105 (e.g., thereby providing analternative design to tandem cells by way of a mechanically stackedconfiguration that is not bonded). According to one or more embodiments,the one or more frames 110 is a snap button and slot system or perimetermold system where the arms 216 and the holders 217 secure or clamp thesolar modules 105 into place. The holders 217 can be spacer clamps forthe arms 216, which hold the solar modules 105 in a vertical stack(e.g., the Z direction), with interim sections 260 as described herein.The system 200 can includes wedges 261 to maintain the one or more solarmodules 105 in place within the arms 216. The wedges 261 can correspondto each solar module 105. The wedges 261 can be clear and/or rubbercomponents, as well as metal or plastic, that support the insertion ofthe solar modules 105. According to one or more embodiments, theperimeter mold system can include a perimeter mold along an outer edgeof each of the solar modules 105, each perimeter mold configured tostack with an adjacent perimeter mold. The system 200 can also includewedges, such as rubber wedges to keep the beam 120 in place within thecap 140. Note that any component of the system 200, as well as the solarmodules 105, can be shipped separately and assembled in the field.Further, as shown in system 201, the frame 110 can also be a continuousstructure that includes a base portion 280 and arm portions 286.

According to one or more embodiments, the interim sections 260 can be anarea of the system 200 where the solar modules 105 are adjacent.Adjacent in this context includes two components being next to, incontact with, or adjoining (e.g., effectively touching) without beingbonded together, as well as being stacked directly on top of each other.The interim sections 260 can be maintained by a seal or the like on aperimeter of the solar modules 105. The seal can include, but is notlimited to, one or more of a glue or other adhesive, a gasket, a plasticmember, and a gap filler. According to one or more embodiments, the sealis a combination of a gap filler and a glue or other adhesive. Accordingto one or more embodiments, the interim sections 260 are sealed on aperimeter to support the mechanical stacking of the solar modules 105,as well as to prevent foreign objects (e.g., dust, insects, rodents, orthe like) from penetrating between the solar modules 105.

According to one or more embodiments, the interim sections 260 can be anarea of the system 200 where the solar modules 105 are proximate to eachother to form a space therebetween. Proximate in this context includestwo components being near, close to, or at some predefined distancewithout being bonded together. Examples of proximate can include, butare not limited to, 1 millimeter, 5 millimeter, 1 centimeter, 5centimeters, 1 decimeter, 5 decimeters, or the like. Any space (i.e.,the interim section 260) can be maintained by a seal as described hereinand/or by the system 200. According to one or more embodiments, thesystem 200 supports and secures the mechanical stacking of the solarmodules 105, as well as provides the seal on one or more sides of thesolar modules 105. Examples of the seal can also include, but are notlimited to, a screen, a water tight membrane, or an air filter.

Each of the solar modules 105 of the system 200 can be transmissive.

FIG. 3 depicts a system 300 according to one or more embodiments. Thesystem 300 receives, from at least the sun 101, the light 102 (thoughother sources are contemplated). The system 300 includes an optionalmodule 310, with an optional transmissive solar cell 311; a transmissivemodule 330, with a transmissive solar cell 331; a module 340, with asolar cell 341 that can be optionally transmissive (e.g., the module 340can be a transmissive module); an optional reflective module 350; one ormore boxes 370, and a bus 380. Note that the optionality of anycomponent or any feature is shown with a dotted border. The optionalmodule 310 can be a concentrator, micro-concentrator, or a transmissivemodule. Each module is connected to the one or more boxes 370, which canbe electrical combiner boxes (e.g., corresponding to strings of asupport structures as described herein) that provide electricitygenerated by the one or more modules 310, 330, and 340 to the bus 380(e.g., the PV bus connector and the PV connector box).

The one or more boxes 370 can be hard wired electrical connections thatprovide outlets, connections, or the like for receiving the one or moremodules 310, 330, and 340. Note that the hard wired electricalconnections can contain sensors, and the hard wired electricalconnections can join wiring from separate modules. For example, eachwiring harnesses of a module can protrude to a backside of each outletto make installation, repairs, and maintenance easy (e.g., in a plug andplay fashion). These hard wired electrical connections and outlets canbe weatherproof quick connection hardware (e.g., used to connect wiresto combiner boxes to simplify installation and reduce field qualityerrors). Fuses with in-use indication lights can be included with eachhard wired electrical connection to ensure the modules are de-energizedduring installation and maintenance. Additionally, the operations of thesystem 300 can be monitored by one or more sensors as described herein.

The system 300 is an example of a modular solar system. Moreparticularly, the system 300 is an example of mechanically stacked solartransmissive cells or modular apparatus. According to one or moreembodiments, the system 300 includes at least two mechanically stackedmodules, such as the optional module 310, the transmissive module 330,and the module 340. According to one or more embodiments, the optionalmodule 310, the transmissive module 330, and the module 340 can bebi-facial (e.g., absorb light energy from either side) and include clearwiring to enable light energy to make multiple passes therethrough. Theoptional module 310 and the transmissive module 330 can berepresentative of one or more upper modules. The module 340 can berepresentative of a module layer, which can be the same or differentfrom the one or more upper modules. The optional module 310 and thetransmissive module 330 includes a plurality of transmissive solar cells(e.g., the optional transmissive solar cell 311 and the transmissivesolar cell 331), which convert light energy received on a Y2 side (or asun or first side) into electricity and pass unconverted portions of thelight energy to a next module. For instance, the optional module 310passes in a Y1 direction unconverted portions of the light energy to thetransmissive module 330 on a Y2 side (or a sun or second side) of theoptional module 310. Further, the transmissive module 330 passes in a Y1direction unconverted portions of the light energy to the module 340 ona Y2 side (or a sun or second side) of the transmissive module 330.

Note that the module 340 includes a plurality of solar cells (e.g., thesolar cell 341 can be optionally transmissive), which convert at leastpart of the unconverted portions of the light energy into electricity.The system 300 mechanically stacks of the at least two mechanicallystacked modules to vertically align the plurality of solar cells of themodule 340 with each of the plurality of transmissive solar cells ofeach of the optional module 310 and the transmissive module 330. In anembodiment, the mechanical stacking by the system 300 can further besealed on one or more sides, such as by a screen, a water tightmembrane, or an air filter as described herein. Example of mechanicalstacking includes, but are not limited to, horizontal stacking, parallelstacking with a plane of a horizon (i.e., flat to the earth), andparallel stacking with a plane of an array (i.e., design determined). Bymaintaining cells/modules mechanically and electrically separated, theone or more modules 310, 330, and 340 can be designed to work togetherfor electrical aggregation (e.g., which further enables a broaderelectrical component scope to achieve power aggregation).

In operation, the sunlight 102 passes through one or more modules 310,330, and 340. The module 310 can absorb the light 102 at a firstwavelength at a first spectral response. Light 391 (i.e., irradiancethereof) that is outside of the first wavelength and in residual excessof the first spectral response outside the first wavelength is furtherpassed in the Y1 direction to the transmissive module 330.

The transmissive module 330 can absorb the light 391 at a secondwavelength at a second spectral response. According to one or moreembodiments, the first and second wavelengths can be the same. Accordingto one or more embodiments, the first spectral response and the secondspectral response can also be the same. Light 393 (i.e., irradiancethereof) that is outside of the second wavelengths and in residualexcess of the second spectral response outside the second wavelength isfurther passed in the Y1 direction to the module 340.

Turning to FIG. 4 , a graph 400 is depicted according to one or moreembodiments. The graph 400 is an example spectral response graph of CdTe(e.g., the transmissive solar cell 331 and the transmissive module 330)and c-Si (e.g., the solar cell 341 and the module 340). FIG. 4 alsoincludes a key 401 identifying lines within the graph 400. The graph 400includes an x-axis showing a nanometer scale for wavelength, as well asa left y-axis showing a spectral intensity and a right y-axis showingspectral response, transmittance. Note that the approximate absorptionrange for the CdTe is 400 to 800 nanometers (e.g., the secondwavelength). For example, in the system 300, the transmissive module 330absorbs irradiance of the light 391 in the 400 to 800 nanometerwavelength range and passes unabsorbed light energy in the wavelengthrange greater than 800 nanometers.

The module 340 can absorb the light 393 at a third wavelength at a thirdspectral response. According to one or more embodiments, the thirdwavelength can include and/or be wider than the second wavelength.Returning to FIG. 4 , note that the approximate absorption range for thec-Si is 400 to 1200 nanometers (e.g., the second wavelength). The module340 absorbs irradiance of the light 393 in at least the 800 to 1200nanometer wavelength range and could pass light energy in the wavelengthrange greater than 1200 nanometers. The module 340 can also absorbsirradiance of the light 393 in the 400 to 1200 nanometer wavelengthrange, where the 400 to 800 nanometer wavelength range includes thelight 393 (i.e., irradiance thereof) that is in residual excess of thesecond spectral response across the second wavelength. Further, light395 (i.e., irradiance thereof) that is outside of the third wavelengthand in residual excess of the third spectral response across the thirdwavelength is further passed in the Y1 direction to the reflectivemodule 350.

The reflective module 350 reflects the light 395 in the Y2 directionback to the module 340. Any remaining irradiance of the light 395 canfurther be absorbed by the module 340 or passed as light 397 to thetransmissive module 330 (e.g., the light 397 continues in the Y2direction). Next, any remaining irradiance of the light 397 can furtherbe absorbed by the transmissive module 330 or passed as light 399 to themodule 310 (e.g., the light 399 continues in the Y2 direction). Note thefading of the arrows representing the light 102, 391, 393, 395, 397, and399 illustrate the absorption of irradiance and descries of energy, asthe light 102 is converted to electricity that is sent to the boxes 370.Note also that each a particular irradiance or portion thereof may notbe absorbed on a first pass and may be absorbed on a second pass (i.e.,in the Y2 direction).

Returning to FIG. 2 , the system 200 can secure the mechanical stackingof the solar modules 105 by the arms 216. For instance, the arms 216 canbe a structure that holds the solar modules 105 in a vertical stack(e.g., the Z direction) and/or other arrangement. For instance, turningto FIG. 5 , a system 500 is depicted that includes arms 516 according toone or more embodiments. The system 500 represents a configurationexample of the system 200 of FIG. 1 . The system 500 includes a y by xby z configuration of 5 by 1 by 1. For example, the system 500 can bereferred to as at least a 5 by 1 configuration or a 5 by 1 by 1configuration. Each solar module 105 can be further designated by an yby x by z coordinate, where x, y, and z are integers greater than 0. Forexample, a solar panel 105.1.1.1 is a first column, first row, and firstvertical position and a solar panel 105.4.1.1 is a fourth column, firstrow, and first vertical position. Note that, conventionally, a solarpanel generally goes on top of a support and is permanently fixed inplace. In contrast, the system 500 enables receiving the solar modules105 into the frame 110 supported by the beam arrangement 120, Further,the arms 516 of the system 500 are configured to reduce shading.According to one or more embodiments, the arms 560 can be sized along arange of one to ten centimeters tall or in a Z1 direction and include asupport member 566 (e.g., that is located three quarters of the way froma Z2 end of the arm 516).

FIG. 6 depicts examples of a system 600 according to one or moreembodiments. Note that, by way of example in conjunction with the otherdrawings, like reference numerals in the figures indicate like elementsand will not be reintroduced for brevity. The system 600 is shown from aperspective view with (600A) and without (600B) the solar modules 105.The system 600 includes several instances of the frame 110, on the beamarrangement 120, each frame 110 including one or more arms 216 and oneor more holders 217. The frames 110 can be a y by x configuration, whichfurther enable the modules to be arranged in a y by x by zconfiguration, where x, y, and z are integers greater than 0. Note thatinstance of each frame 110 the can be considered a cartridge holders andcan be shipped separately and assembled on-site with the solar modules105. For instance, as shown in the system 600A, the frames 500 can bereferred to as at least a 7 by 1 configuration, while the modules are ina 7 by 1 by 4 configuration. Each solar module 105 can be furtherdesignated by an y by x by z coordinate. For example, a solar panel105.7.1.1 is a seventh column, first row, and first vertical positionand a solar panel 105.4.1.3 is a fourth column, first row, and thirdvertical position. Additionally, an alternative illustration of thesystem 600 is depicted as system 601 (also without any modules 105therein). Further, as shown in system 601, each frame 110 can also be acontinuous structure that includes a base portion 280 and arm portions286.

Turning now to FIG. 7 , an environment 700 is illustrated according toone or more embodiments. The environment 700 can include one or moremodular solar systems (i.e., solar module racking system for solar powergeneration) as discussed herein. Embodiments of the environment 700include apparatuses, systems, methods, and/or computer program productsat any possible technical detail level of integration. Note that, by wayof example in conjunction with the other drawings, like referencenumerals in the figures indicate like elements and will not bereintroduced for brevity.

According to one or more embodiments, the environment 700 can berepresentative of the modular solar system located within a field 701and including one or more systems 702.n (where n is an integer). Moreparticularly, the environment 700 can include systems 701 (which canrepresent any of the systems described herein) that support one or moremechanically stacked solar transmissive modules (i.e., the solar modules105) within one or more frames 710 (which can represent any of theframes described herein) to receive and convert light energy (e.g., fromat least the sun 101, though other sources are contemplated). In thisway, embodiments of the environment 700 include apparatuses, systems,methods, and/or computer program products at any possible technicaldetail level of integration.

The field 701 can be any terrain or expanse of open or cleared groundfor supporting the one or more systems 702.n, as well as rooftops and/orother property areas. For example, any single component of the system702 can be placed within the field 701, such as a being placed directlyon a roof without the post 130, the cap 140, and/or the beam arrangement120. Each system 702 includes at least an inverter 715, a switch 717, astring 720, and the one or more frames 710 (where m is an integer). Eachframe 710 (e.g., the frame 110) can include the one or more modules 105(e.g., the modules 310, 330, and 340 to the bus 380).

The inverter 715 can be any power electronic device or circuitry thatchanges between currents, such as direct current (DC) to alternatingcurrent (AC). The switch 717 can be a de-energizing switch that groundseach system 702. According to one or more embodiments, the switch 717provides electrical latching, when the systems 702 is energized, andprevents ejection. The string 720 can be any electronic configurationthat connects one or more electrical components (e.g., the one or moremodules 105), whether in series or in parallel to a particularelectrical component (e.g., such as the inverter 715). The string 720can include a plurality of pre-wired receptacles for rapid assembly ofthe one or more modules 105 into the frames 710.

Each module 732 is connected to a corresponding string 720 (e.g., via apre-wired receptacle, a pin connection, a pig tail connection, or thelike) and has an interim section 634 (e.g., the interim section 120 ofFIG. 1 or distance 250 of FIG. 2 ) defining a distance from othermodules 732. Each module 732 can also include at least one sensor 736and a code 738. Further, additional sensors 736 can be located throughthe systems 702 and the environment 700. The environment 700 andelements therein (e.g., any of the sensors 736) can be managed a device760. Further, the environment 700 can be connected to a grid 770 and canbe managed by a maintenance robot, a drone, a technician, or the like.

According to one or more embodiments, the system 702 and the frames 710can be assembled in a factory setting, including pre-wiring to reducefield assembly costs in the field 701 while increasing quality. When theframes 710 are shipped to the field 701, the frames 710 can be connectedtogether and then erected like a puzzle with respect to the systems 701.The one or more frames 710 can have dimensions to accommodate modules105 (e.g., 1×2 meters in length and width) and to provide spacing thataccommodates cooling and bandgap distribution. According to one or moreembodiments, 1 inch high modules with 1 inch spacing therebetweenprovides an 8 inch high module (e.g., that may look like a pancakestack). In turn, the system 702 can provide lateral stability side toside, while the solar module 105 provides stability front to backstability. According to one or more embodiments, the solar modules 105can be adjacent (e.g., may be stacked directly on top of each otherwithout spacing therebetween).

According to one or more embodiments, the environment 700 includes thesystems 702, the frames 710, and the at least two mechanically modules105 in the field 701 with sensors 736. The environment 700 illustrates,on a macro level, how elements and things are connected within a greaternetwork for alerts, as well as to provide electricity the grid 770 orother load (e.g., one or more batteries). The frame 710 can be anyintegrated system that provides three dimensional solar systemapplications. The at least two mechanically modules 105 include a bottommodule and one or more upper modules as described herein.

The systems 702 securing a mechanical stacking of the at least twomechanically stacked solar modules 105 to vertically align the pluralityof solar cells and/or transmissive solar cells of the at least twomechanically modules 105. Each of the solar modules 105 of theenvironment 700 can further include one or more solar cell arrangements.For instance, turning now to FIG. 8 , modules 801 and 802 are depictedaccording to one or more embodiments. The modules 801 and 802 can alsobe an example configuration of any of the solar modules 105 and themodules 330 and 340 discussed herein. The module 801 includes one ormore cells 810 arranged in an x-y grid, where both x and y are integersgreater than 0. The module 802 includes one or more cells 820 arrangedin an x-y grid, where x is 1 and y is an integer greater than 0. Thewidth, wiring, configuration of cells 810 and 820 can be managed andoperated to control power generation on a per cell basis.

According to one or more technical effects, advantages, and benefits,the frame 710 enable the solar modules 105 to be easily moved, replaced,and/or exchanged, such as for future generation modules 105. The frame710 stacks the solar modules 105 vertically to maximize a solar energycaptured per square meter of surface area. Further, a vertical aspect ofordering the solar modules 105 within the frame 710 enables capturingeach bandgap, cooling, spacing, etc. According to one or moreembodiments, the frame 710 can utilize a shell or casing that holdsmultiple solar modules placed on top of another, with the space 634therebetween allowing for airflow for cooling or without a space.According to one or more embodiments, a top solar module can be aconcentrator or micro-concentrator, one or more middle modules can beone or more transmissive modules, and a bottom module can capture anyremaining light energy (e.g., infrared radiation) or be reflective. Notethat, in an example, the frame 710 stacks four layers of modules 105,where each module 732 corresponds to one of the strings 720. Each string720 corresponds and electrically connects to one of the at least twomechanically staked modules 105 to receive the electricity therefrom.Each string 720 is electrically distinct from other strings 720.

According to one or more embodiments, the environment 700 can alsoinclude a uniform design, where the solar modules 105 are connected inseries or parallel. For example, each cell of a module 732 can provide1.5 volts. Further, 32 cells can be connected in series within eachmodule 732 that are further connected in series per string 720 (e.g., 18modules 105 in series per string 720 provides 864 volts). The inverters715 can combine 32 strings 720 in parallel to produce a high currentthat is provided to the grid 770. According to one or more embodiments,the environment 700 can also include a tiered design, where the solarmodules 105 of the one or more strings 720 are connected in parallel,the solar modules 105 of the one or more strings 720 are connected inseries, and/or a combination thereof (e.g., a collection of tiersmanaged in a hybrid environment).

The system 702 can be a pre-wired modular racking system thatincorporates one or more technology aspects (e.g. modular DC optimizers)described herein. According to one or more embodiments, the system 702can be an aggregation of the one or more frames 710 thereof. A structureof the system 702 can be made of carbon fiber, steel, metal, alloy,wood, plastic, fiberglass, or any combination thereof. According to oneor more embodiments, the system 702 can be a “smart rack” system giventhe sensors 736 and an ability to be communicatively coupled to thedevice 760.

According to one or more technical effects, advantages, and benefits,the frame 710 enables single p-n junction cells (which are costeffective compared to other technologies) to be layered in a stackingstructure, which is distinguished from tandem cells by not bonding thesolar modules 105 and keeping the electricity distinct. Further,according to one or more technical effects, advantages, and benefit, theframe 710 provides improved modularization that facilitates easy fieldinstallation to reduce a balance of plant (BOP) cost structure. Forexample, solar module prices currently correspond to approximately $0.40per watt for a utility-scale solar power project cost in the UnitedStates of America and include diminishing returns in solar cell costreductions. Also, BOP cost reductions have made very little progresswith conventional solar technologies and have not dropped proportionallyas conventional solar technologies advance. Different governmentagencies target the overall cost threshold for a solar power plant at$0.50 per watt (DC) to be cost-competitive with traditional fossilfuels. This goal is only achievable if there are significantimprovements with BOP costs. A way to accomplish this goal is byincreasing sunlight capture density per land surface area, therebydecreasing electrical production costs by spreading BOP costs overhigher kWh of power production. Further, according to one or moretechnical effects, advantages, and benefit, the frame 710 is morefeasible for homes and commercial buildings where rooftops and propertyareas are limited. In turn, the frame 710 can make buildings Net Zeroelectricity consumers and virtually taken off the grid 770. Further,according to one or more technical effects, advantages, and benefit, theenvironment 700 can salvage infrastructure while having the flexibilityto harness future technological improvements (e.g., a solar lifespanaverages at 15 years; while in contrast the environment 700 can nowextend that lifespan to greater than 50 years).

FIG. 9 depicts a system 900 according to one or more embodiments. Thesystem 900 is an example of the solar module racking system as describedherein and is shown from a side view and a perspective view. Note that,by way of example in conjunction with the other drawings, like referencenumerals in the figures indicate like elements and will not bereintroduced for brevity. The diagram of FIG. 9 is oriented according toan X1-X2 axis, a Y1-Y2 axis, and Z1-X2 axis. The X1-X2 axis, asrepresented as a dot/circle, axis is generally oriented into and out ofthe page or normal to a Y-Z plane. The Y1-Y2 axis is generally orientedin a direction normal to an X-Z plane. The Z1-Z2 axis is generallyoriented in a direction normal to an X-Y plane. The X1 direction isopposite the X2 direction, the Y1 direction is opposite the Y2direction, and the Z1 direction is opposite the Z2 direction. Otherorientations can be made in accordance with these axes, which may betilted or angled. References to a side or a surface of a component canbe described in accordance with these axes. For instance, a reference toa lower or bottom side or a downwardly facing surface of a componentdescribed may be referred to as a Z2 side or a Z2 surface.

The system 900 receives, from at least the sun 101 (from the Y1-Z1direction), the light 102 at a plurality of solar modules 905. Thesystem 900 includes a post 130 mounted to a surface (i.e., a ground131), and a cap 140. The system 900 includes a frame, a framework, or astacking structure, e.g., shown as a plurality of frames 910.x.y (shownas the frame 910.1.1, the frame 910.2.1, etc.) and a beam arrangement920.

The plurality of frames 910 can receive and mechanically support eachmodule of the plurality of solar modules 905. The frame 910 arranges theplurality of solar modules in a first planar direction (the X or Ydirection of the X-Y plane), in a second planar direction (a remaining Xor Y direction of the X-Y plane), and in a vertical direction (the Zdirection) that is normal to the first and second planar directions.

Each of plurality of pre-wired receptacles. The solar module rackingsystem provides at least a 1 by 1 by 2 configuration for the pluralityof solar modules corresponding to the first planar direction, the secondplanar direction, and the vertical direction where at least a firstmodule and a second module are arranged and mechanically stacked in thevertical direction.

Each frame 910.x.y can include a plurality of pre-wired receptacles forrapid assembly of the plurality of solar modules 905 (i.e., individuallyand electrically connect after insertion of that module 905 into theframe 910). Each receptacle can correspond to a position along thevertical or Z direction.

FIG. 10 depicts a configuration example 1000 of one or more systems thatare connected according to one or more embodiments. The configurationexample 1000 illustrates two systems 1001 and 1002, each including ajunction box or electric outlet 1005 (e.g., the PV bus connector and thePV connector box) connected by wiring or electrical cable 1006. Thewiring or electrical cable 1006, more particularly, connects the twosystems 1001 and 1002 by varying in length to accommodate differentangles and mounting heights. Note that wiring channels are in the beamarrangement 120 of the two systems 1001 and 1002. An electrical combinerbox 1007 corresponds to strings of the two systems 1001 and 1002 thatprovide electricity.

FIGS. 11A-11D depict details views of the wiring of the solar moduleracking system for solar power generation according to one or moreembodiments. As shown in FIG. 11A, a frame 1100 is system that can bebuilt in a factory (i.e., robotically or not) and can act as astructural assembly for custom modules. The frame 1100 includes T-framemembers 1110 and L-frame members 1115, as well as flat stock 1120. A topsurface/area and/or a bottom surface/area of the frame 1110 can remainopen. The beam arrangement 1125 supports the frame 1110. The beamarrangement 1125 can be a C-channel support as shown as an end 1126. Theflat stock 1120 can support one or more electrical snap-in power sensors1130, each corresponding to a module location where the frame 1110 canreceive a module. The one or more electrical snap-in power sensors 1130can be connected via one or more wires/strings to the combiner box 1135.

As shown in a zoomed in perspective view of FIG. 11B, a flat stock 1120b includes double modules assemblies for the electrical snap-in powersensors 1130. The wiring 1140 and 1141 connect each tier of assemblies(form a string for modules on a same level) and terminate pig tailconnections 1145.

As shown in a zoomed in side view of FIG. 11C, the flat stock 1120 bincludes double modules assemblies for the electrical snap-in powersensors 1130. Each electrical snap-in power sensor 1130 includes asnap-in plug 1151 and a power sensor 1152. The snap-in plug 1151receives one of the modules 1155.1 and 1155.2.

As shown in a zoomed in internal view of FIG. 11D, the electricalsnap-in power sensors 1130 of the flat stock 1120 d include plugs 1161and 1161 (e.g., the connector 1685 of FIG. 16 ), each with correspondingfasteners 1163.

FIG. 12 depicts prefabricated wiring examples 1201, 1202, and 1203according to one or more embodiments. The wiring diagram 1201illustrates a frame and module wiring (e.g., the string 720 of FIG. 7 )that enables each module on a tier to be wired in serial or parallel.The wiring diagram 1202 illustrates a serial wiring, while the wiringdiagram 1203 illustrates a parallel wiring. As shown, the wiring diagram1201 includes a 4 pin connector (e.g., the connector 1685 of FIG. 16 )for each module as a base frame wiring. According to one or moreembodiments, by using a 4 pin connector, any appropriate serial/parallelwiring can be put in the module itself, effectively reconfiguring from aparallel to serial wiring (or vice versa). For example, if one tier isperovskite, then each module for that that tier can be configured to bewired in parallel. Further, if another tier is crystalline silicon(c-Si), then that tier can be configured in serial. In turn, theappropriate wiring configuration can be completed in the modules ofthose tier at the time of manufacture, ensuring each tier is alwayscorrectly wired. Additionally, based on the wiring, mixed modules (e.g.one serial, one parallel), alternating them in certain positions, can beprovided (e.g., thereby allowing for a hybrid parallel/serialaggregation within a configuration). Also, a switch on the modules canenable on-sight re-configuration from parallel to serial (or vice versa)and/or using two different wiring configurations of the same module.According to one or more embodiments, a hybrid configuration can beprovided where strings includes modules wired in parallel while thestrings themselves are wired in series. This hybrid configuration canresult in 1,1600 volts with a moderate current.

FIG. 13 depicts perspective view 1301 and a side view 1302 of the solarmodule racking system for solar power generation according to one ormore embodiments. As shown in FIG. 13 , the solar module racking systemincludes a combiner box 1310, wires 1320, conductors 1330, C-channelsupport 1340, a frame 1350, modules 1360 and 1370, and connection hole1380 (to receive a fastener, such as a bolt or snap-in connection). Notethat the wires 1320 can correspond to the modules 1360 and 1370 suchthat a string of the solar module racking system terminates in thecombiner box 1310. The C-channel support 1340 can provide a cable tray,as well as torsional rigidity.

FIG. 14 depicts views 1400, 1401, and 1402 of the solar module rackingsystem for solar power generation according to one or more embodiments.The view 1400 of the solar module racking system includes the beam 224supporting one or more holders 217. An example of the one or moreholders 217 can be find in a cross-sectional view 1401 and 1402. In thecross-sectional view 1401, a bottom extrusion 1410 with two moduleassemblies 1415 and 1420 placed on either side of a flange 1425. Theflange 1425 is configured to receive a top extrusion 1430 of thecross-sectional view 1402. The bottom extrusion 1410 and the topextrusion 1430 are configured to clamp in place. For instance, a rail1435 running a lateral direction of the flange 1425 can set a height ofthe top extrusion 1430. In this regard, the two module assemblies 1415and 1420 rest on pads 1440 of the bottom extrusion 1410, while a slot1445 at slides over and clamps (e.g., snaps-on) the flange 1425. Theslot 1445 can have one or more groves 1450, each of which can setaheight of the top extrusion 1430 to accommodate one or more modules. Thebottom extrusion 1410 and the top extrusion 1430 can be removed in thefield 701. The grove 1455 can provide torsional rigidity.

By way of example, FIG. 15 depicts a frame 1500 according to one or moreembodiments. The frame 1500 is shown from a perspective view and a sideview through side walls thereof. The frame 1500 includes a shell 1505, avent grate or opening 1510, a hole 1515 (e.g., to accept a fastener toattach to the frame 1500 to a frame), and one or more shelves 1530.

The one or more shelves 1530 can be support the modules 310, 330, 340,and 350 and the boxes 370 and 380 to hold these components in a verticalstack, with interim sections 260 therebetween allowing for seal,airflow, cooling, etc. The one or more shelves 1530 can be brackets,L-shaped flanges, or the like that provide a plurality of levels withinthe frame 1500, such as a top level, a top-middle level, a bottom-middlelevel, and a bottom level. Note that the shelves 1530 enable the interimsection 260 between the modules 330 and 340. Further, note that each ofthe modules 330 and 340 includes a connector 1540 (e.g., via a pre-wiredreceptacle, a pin connection, a pig tail connection, or the like) thatelectrically couples that module 330 and 340 with a corresponding box370. The connector 1540 can include designs that eliminate a need fornuts and bolts, further making field servicing easy.

According to one or more embodiments, the frame 1500 secures amechanical stacking of the modules 330 and 340 (e.g., thereby providingan alternative design to tandem cells by way of a mechanically stackedconfiguration that is not bonded). According to one or more embodiments,the frame 1500 is a frame and rail system where the one or more shelves1530 act as horizontal slider tracks that the modules 330 and 340 layupon. Note that the frame 1500 can include an open top (e.g., so thelight 102 can cast onto any modules 330 and 340 therein) and an openbottom, as well as vent grate or opening 1510 or open walls to allow todirect airflow. The frame 1500 or any parts thereof can be made ofmetal, wood, plastic, fiber glass, carbon fiber or other structuralmaterials as described herein.

FIG. 16 depicts a diagram 1600 of a frame 1610, as well as a moduleloading operation (inserting one or more modules 1620, 1630, and 1640),according to one or more embodiments. In this regard, the diagram 1600shows the frame 110 includes the arm 216 and one or more support members516. Further, the one or more support members 566 are keyed, ensuringthat a particular module can only be inserted into a proper positionwithin the frame 1650. As shown, a module 1620 is keyed for a position1660, a module 1630 is keyed for a position 1670, and a module 1650 iskeyed for positions 1660 and 1670. Note that any connectors can be keyedas well or in the alternative, such as by filling a hole or providing apeg, to ensure proper connections. FIG. 16 also depicts diagram 1680 ofa frame 1610 according to one or more embodiments. In the diagram 1680,a single module 1630 has been inserted into the position 1660. Further,as no modules are in the remaining positions of the frame 1610,corresponding connector 1685 (e.g., via a pre-wired receptacle, a pinconnection, a pig tail connection, or the like) that electricallycouples any modules adapted to that position within the frame 1610 areshown.

According to one or more embodiments, the connector 1685 includes hardwired electrical connections, such as combiner box connections thatprovide outlets, PCI connections, or the like for receiving modules.Note that the hard wired electrical connections can contain sensors(e.g., the sensors 736 of FIG. 7 ), and the hard wired electricalconnections can join wiring from separate modules. For example, eachwiring harnesses of a module 1630 can protrude to a backside of eachoutlet to make installation, repairs, and maintenance easy (e.g., in aplug and play fashion). These hard wired electrical connections andoutlets can be weatherproof quick connection hardware (e.g., used toconnect wires to combiner boxes or one or more boxes 370 of FIG. 3 tosimplify installation and reduce field quality errors). Fuses within-use indication lights can be included with each hard wired electricalconnection to ensure the modules are de-energized during installationand maintenance.

FIG. 17 depicts a system 1700 according to one or more embodiments. Thesystem 1700 is an example of the solar module racking system asdescribed herein and is shown from a side view and a perspective view.Note that, by way of example in conjunction with the other drawings,like reference numerals in the figures indicate like elements and willnot be reintroduced for brevity. The diagram of FIG. 17 is orientedaccording to an X1-X2 axis, a Y1-Y2 axis, and Z1-X2 axis. The X1-X2axis, as represented as a dot/circle, axis is generally oriented intoand out of the page or normal to a Y-Z plane. The Y1-Y2 axis isgenerally oriented in a direction normal to an X-Z plane. The Z1-Z2 axisis generally oriented in a direction normal to an X-Y plane. The X1direction is opposite the X2 direction, the Y1 direction is opposite theY2 direction, and the Z1 direction is opposite the Z2 direction. Otherorientations can be made in accordance with these axes, which may betilted or angled. References to a side or a surface of a component canbe described in accordance with these axes. For instance, a reference toa lower or bottom side or a downwardly facing surface of a componentdescribed may be referred to as a Z2 side or a Z2 surface.

The system 1700 receives, from at least the sun 101 (from the Y1-Z1direction), the light 102 at a plurality of solar modules 1705. Thesystem 1700 includes a post 130 mounted to a surface (i.e., a ground131), and a cap 140. The system 1700 includes a frame, a framework, or astacking structure, e.g., shown as a plurality of frames 1710 and a beamarrangement 1720.

The beam arrangement 1720 can include at least one beam of the beamarrangement 120, such as square beams, round beams, I-beams, or otherstructural member with variable angles. For instance, the beamarrangement 1720 can include a structure beam 1722, a support beam 1724,a lateral support beam 1726, a lateral support beam 1727, and anadjustable bracket 1730 that can be affixed at any height on the post toresult angling the plurality of solar modules 1705.

According to one or more Turning now to FIG. 18 , a computing system1800 is illustrated according to one or more embodiments. The computingsystem 1800 can be representative of any computing device, computingapparatus, and/or computing environment, which include hardware,software, or a combination thereof. Further, embodiments of thecomputing system 1800 disclosed may include apparatuses, systems,methods, and/or computer program products at any possible technicaldetail level of integration. In general, the computing system 1800 ofFIG. 18 operates to monitor at least the environment 700 of FIG. 7 andcomponents therein. For instance, the computing system 1800 can detectanomalies, degradations, operations, and the like to, as well ascoordinate with other systems and data of those systems (e.g., weatherdata), to accept, process, and extrapolate (e.g., using big dataoperations with respect to machine learning and artificial intelligence)at least a health of the device 760 of FIG. 7 and components therein.

The computing system 1800 has a device 1805 (e.g., the device 760 ofFIG. 7 ) with one or more central processing units (CPU(s)), which arecollectively or generically referred to as a processor 1810. Theprocessor 1810, also referred to as processing circuits, is coupled viaa system bus 1815 to a system memory 1820 and various other components.The computing system 1800 and/or the device 1805 may be adapted orconfigured to perform as an online platform, a server, an embeddedcomputing system, a personal computer, a console, a personal digitalassistant (PDA), a cell phone, a tablet computing device, a quantumcomputing device, cloud computing device, a mobile device, a smartphone,a fixed mobile device, a smart display, a wearable computer, or thelike.

The processor 1810 may be any type of general or specific purposeprocessor, including a central processing unit (CPU), applicationspecific integrated circuit (ASIC), field programmable gate array(FPGA), graphics processing unit (GPU), controller, multi-coreprocessing unit, three dimensional processor, quantum computing device,or any combination thereof. The processor 1810 may also have multipleprocessing cores, and at least some of the cores may be configured toperform specific functions. Multi-parallel processing may also beconfigured. In addition, at least the processor 1810 may be aneuromorphic circuit that includes processing elements that mimicbiological neurons.

The system bus 1815 (or other communication mechanism) is configured forcommunicating information or data to the processor 1810, the systemmemory 1820, and various other components, such as an adapter 1825.

The system memory 1820 is an example of a (non-transitory) computerreadable storage medium, where software 1830 can be stored as softwarecomponents, modules, engines, instructions, or the like for execution bythe processor 1810 to cause the device 1805 to operate, such asdescribed herein. The system memory 1820 can include any combination ofa read only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), internal orexternal Flash memory, embedded static-RAM (SRAM), solid-state memory,cache, static storage such as a magnetic or optical disk, or any othertypes of volatile or non-volatile memory. Non-transitory computerreadable storage mediums may be any media that can be accessed by theprocessor 1810 and may include volatile media, non-volatile media, orthe like. For example, the ROM is coupled to the system bus 1815 and mayinclude a basic input/output system (BIOS), which controls certain basicfunctions of the device 1805, and the RAM is read-write memory coupledto the system bus 1815 for use by the processors 1810. Non-transitorycomputer readable storage mediums can include any media that isremovable, non-removable, or the like.

According to one or more embodiments, the software 1830 can beconfigured in hardware, software, or a hybrid implementation. Thesoftware 1830 can be composed of modules that are in operativecommunication with one another, and to pass information or instructions.According to one or more embodiments, the software 1830 can provide oneor more user interfaces, such as on behalf of the operating system orother application and/or directly as needed. The user interfacesinclude, but are not limited to, graphic user interfaces, windowinterfaces, internet browsers, and/or other visual interfaces forapplications, operating systems, file folders, and the like. Thus, useractivity can include any interaction or manipulation of the userinterfaces provided by the software 1830. The software 1830 can furtherinclude custom modules to perform application specific processes orderivatives thereof, such that the computing system 1800 may includeadditional functionality. For example, according to one or moreembodiments, the software 1830 may be configured to store information,instructions, commands, or data to be executed or processed by theprocessor 1810 to logically implement the methods described herein(e.g., big data operations with respect to machine learning andartificial intelligence). The software 1830 of FIG. 18 can also berepresentative of an operating system, a mobile application, a clientapplication, and/or the like for the device 1805 for the computingsystem 1800.

The adapter 1825 can be representative of one or more adapters of thedevice 1805, such as an input/output (I/O) adapter, a device adapter,and/or a communications adapter. According to one or more embodiments,the adapter 1825 may be connected to one or more I/O buses that areconnected to the system bus 1815 via an intermediate bus bridge.Suitable I/O buses for connecting peripheral devices such as hard diskcontrollers, network adapters, and graphics adapters typically includecommon protocols, such as the Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI).

According to one or more embodiments, the I/O adapter can be configuredas a small computer system interface (SCSI), of in view of frequencydivision multiple access (FDMA) single carrier FDMA (SC-FDMA), timedivision multiple access (TDMA), code division multiple access (CDMA),orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM), orthogonalfrequency-division multiple access (OFDMA), global system for mobile(GSM) communications, general packet radio service (GPRS), universalmobile telecommunications system (UMTS), cdma2000, wideband CDMA(W-CDMA), high-speed downlink packet access (HSDPA), high-speed uplinkpacket access (HSUPA), high-speed packet access (HSPA), long termevolution (LTE), LTE Advanced (LTE-A), 802.11x, Wi-Fi, Zigbee,Ultra-WideBand (UWB), 802.16x, 802.15, home Node-B (HnB), Bluetooth,radio frequency identification (RFID), infrared data association (IrDA),near-field communications (NFC), fifth generation (5G), new radio (NR),or any other wireless or wired device/transceiver for communication.

According to one or more embodiments, the device adapter interconnectsinput/output devices to the system bus 1815, such as a display 1841, asensor 1842, a controller 1843, or the like (e.g., a camera, a speaker,etc.).

The display 1841 is configured to provide one or more UIs or graphic UIs(GUIs) that can be captured by and analyzes by the software 1830, as theusers interacts with the device 1805. Examples of the display 1841 caninclude, but are not limited to, a plasma, a liquid crystal display(LCD), a light emitting diode (LED), a field emission display (FED), anorganic light emitting diode (OLED) display, a flexible OLED display, aflexible substrate display, a projection display, a 4K display, a highdefinition (HD) display, a Retina© display, an in-plane switching (IPS)display or the like. The display 1841 may be configured as a touch,three dimensional (3D) touch, multi-input touch, or multi-touch displayusing resistive, capacitive, surface-acoustic wave (SAW) capacitive,infrared, optical imaging, dispersive signal technology, acoustic pulserecognition, frustrated total internal reflection, or the like asunderstood by one of ordinary skill in the art for input/output (I/O).

The sensor 1842, such as any transducer configured to convert one ormore environmental conditions into an electrical signal, may be furthercoupled to the system bus 1815 for input to the device 1805. Inaddition, one or more inputs may be provided to the computing system1800 remotely via another computing system (e.g., the computing system1855) in communication therewith, or the device 1805 may operateautonomously. For example, the sensor 1842 can include one or more of anelectrode, a temperature sensor (e.g., thermocouple), a current sensor,a photosensor, an accelerometer, a microphone, a radiation sensor, aproximity sensor, position sensor, and a long range (LoRa) sensor (e.g.,any low-power wide-area network modulation sensor). According to one ormore embodiments, the sensors 1842 can be installed at each level andintegrated into an environment (e.g., the sensors 736 of the environment700 of FIG. 7 ) to monitor operations therein, such as identify when aspecific module (e.g., the module 732 of the environment 700 of FIG. 7 )is not functioning correctly. For example. when a module's electriccurrent falls below a defined threshold, the sensors 1842 (e.g.,electric current sensors) send a signal to the software 1830 to identifya malfunctioning module's exact location. Each sensor 1842 includes aserial number that can be matched with each modules/modularapparatuses/frames/etc. (e.g., as identified on a scannable code) andcorresponding level of the environment (e.g., the environment 700 ofFIG. 7 ).

The controller 1843, such as a computer mouse, a touchpad, a touchscreen, a keyboard, a keypad, or the like, may be further coupled to thesystem bus 1815 for input to the device 1805. In addition, one or moreinputs may be provided to the computing system 1800 remotely via anothercomputing system (e.g., the computing system 1855) in communicationtherewith, or the device 1805 may operate autonomously. The controller1843 can also be representative of one or more actuators or the like formoving, locking, unlocking portions of the environment (e.g., theenvironment 700 of FIG. 7 ).

According to one or more embodiments, the communications adapterinterconnects the system bus 1815 with a network 1850, which may be anoutside network, enabling the device 1805 to communicate data with othersuch devices (e.g., such a computing system 1855 through the network1850).

According to one or more embodiments, the functionality of the device1805 with respect to the software 1830 can also be implemented on thecomputing system 1855, as represented by separate instances of thesoftware 1830. Note that the software 1830 can be stored in a commonrepository located at the device 1805 and/or the computing system 1855and can be downloaded (on demand) to and/or from each of the device 1805and/or the computing system 1855.

According to one or more embodiments, a solar module racking systemincluding a frame. The frame includes a plurality of pre-wiredreceptacles for rapid assembly of a plurality of solar modules. Theframe receives and mechanically supports each module of the plurality ofsolar modules. The frame arranges the plurality of solar modules in afirst planar direction, in a second planar direction, and in a verticaldirection that is normal to the first and second planar directions. Eachof plurality of pre-wired receptacles individually and electricallyconnect each of the plurality of solar modules after insertion of thatmodule into the frame. The solar module racking system provides at leasta 2 by 1 by 1 configuration or a 1 by 2 by 1 configuration for theplurality of solar modules corresponding to the first planar direction,the second planar direction, and the vertical direction. A first moduleand a second module are arranged in the first planar direction or thesecond planar direction, respectively.

According to one or more embodiments or any of the solar module rackingsystems herein, the solar module racking system can include a beamarrangement including at least one beam and configured to support theframe.

According to one or more embodiments or any of the solar module rackingsystems herein, the solar module racking system can include a postmounted to a surface; and a cap mechanically coupled to the post andconfigured to accept the beam arrangement.

According to one or more embodiments or any of the solar module rackingsystems herein, the beam arrangement can support the frame and at leastone second frame to provide at least a 2 by 1 by 2 configuration or atleast a 1 by 2 by 2 configuration for the plurality of solar moduleswhere at least a third module and is arranged in the vertical directionwith respect to the first module and the second module.

According to one or more embodiments or any of the solar module rackingsystems herein, the frame can receive a top loading of the plurality ofsolar modules.

According to one or more embodiments or any of the solar module rackingsystems herein, the frame can include one or more arms, each arm of theone or more arms being configured to minimize internal shading onto theplurality of solar modules.

According to one or more embodiments or any of the solar module rackingsystems herein, the frame can include a slot and shelving system, a railclamp system, a snap button and slot system, or a tracking system forreceiving the plurality of solar modules.

According to one or more embodiments or any of the solar module rackingsystems herein, the frame can be sealed by a perimeter mold along anouter edge of the each of the first and second modules.

According to one or more embodiments or any of the solar module rackingsystems herein, the frame can be sealed on a perimeter of the first andsecond modules by a screen, a water tight membrane, or an air filter.

According to one or more embodiments or any of the solar module rackingsystems herein, the frame can include a flange configured tomechanically support the plurality of solar modules; a tongue extendingin the vertical direction from the frame; and a grooved clamp configuredto fit onto the flange and secure the plurality of solar modules in themechanically stacked vertical direction.

According to one or more embodiments, a solar module racking systemincluding a frame. The frame includes a plurality of pre-wiredreceptacles for rapid assembly of a plurality of solar modules. Theframe receives and mechanically supports each module of the plurality ofsolar modules. The frame arranges the plurality of solar modules in afirst planar direction, in a second planar direction, and in a verticaldirection that is normal to the first and second planar directions. Eachof plurality of pre-wired receptacles individually and electricallyconnect each of the plurality of solar modules after insertion of thatmodule into the frame. The solar module racking system provides at leasta 1 by 1 by 2 configuration for the plurality of solar modulescorresponding to the first planar direction, the second planardirection, and the vertical direction where at least a first module anda second module are arranged and mechanically stacked in the verticaldirection.

According to one or more embodiments or any of the solar module rackingsystems herein, the solar module racking system can include a beamarrangement including at least one beam and configured to support theframe.

According to one or more embodiments or any of the solar module rackingsystems herein, the solar module racking system can include a postmounted to a surface; and a cap mechanically coupled to the post andconfigured to accept the beam arrangement.

According to one or more embodiments or any of the solar module rackingsystems herein, the beam arrangement can support the frame and at leastone second frame to provide at least a 2 by 1 by 2 configuration or atleast a 1 by 2 by 2 configuration for the plurality of solar moduleswhere at least a third module and is arranged in the first planardirection or the second planar direction with respect to the firstmodule and the second module.

According to one or more embodiments or any of the solar module rackingsystems herein, the frame can receive a top loading of the plurality ofsolar modules.

According to one or more embodiments or any of the solar module rackingsystems herein, the frame can include one or more arms, each arm of theone or more arms being configured to minimize internal shading onto theplurality of solar modules.

According to one or more embodiments or any of the solar module rackingsystems herein, the frame can include a slot and shelving system, a railclamp system, a snap button and slot system, or a tracking system forreceiving the plurality of solar modules.

According to one or more embodiments or any of the solar module rackingsystems herein, the frame can be sealed by a perimeter mold along anouter edge of the each of the mechanically stacked first and secondmodules.

According to one or more embodiments or any of the solar module rackingsystems herein, the frame can be sealed on a perimeter of the first andsecond modules by a screen, a water tight membrane, or an air filter.

According to one or more embodiments or any of the solar module rackingsystems herein, the frame can include a flange configured tomechanically support the plurality of solar modules; a tongue extendingin the vertical direction from the frame; and a grooved clamp configuredto fit onto the flange and secure the first and second modules in themechanically stacked vertical direction.

The flowchart and block diagrams in the Figures illustrate thearchitecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementationsof systems, methods, and computer program products according to variousembodiments of the present invention. In this regard, each block in theflowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portionof instructions, which includes one or more executable instructions forimplementing the specified logical function(s). In some alternativeimplementations, the functions noted in the blocks may occur out of theorder noted in the Figures. For example, two blocks shown in successionmay, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks maysometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon thefunctionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of theblock diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocksin the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, can be implementedby special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specifiedfunctions or acts or carry out combinations of special purpose hardwareand computer instructions.

Although features and elements are described above in particularcombinations, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that eachfeature or element can be used alone or in any combination with theother features and elements. In addition, the methods described hereinmay be implemented in a computer program, software, or firmwareincorporated in a computer-readable medium for execution by a computeror processor. A computer readable medium, as used herein, is not to beconstrued as being transitory signals per se, such as radio waves orother freely propagating electromagnetic waves, electromagnetic wavespropagating through a waveguide or other transmission media (e.g., lightpulses passing through a fiber-optic cable), or electrical signalstransmitted through a wire.

Examples of computer-readable media include electrical signals(transmitted over wired or wireless connections) and computer-readablestorage media. Examples of computer-readable storage media include, butare not limited to, a register, cache memory, semiconductor memorydevices, magnetic media such as internal hard disks and removable disks,magneto-optical media, optical media such as compact disks (CD) anddigital versatile disks (DVDs), a random access memory (RAM), aread-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROMor Flash memory), a static random access memory (SRAM), and a memorystick. A processor in association with software may be used to implementa radio frequency transceiver for use in a terminal, base station, orany host computer.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularembodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, thesingular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the pluralforms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It willbe further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,”when used in this specification, specify the presence of statedfeatures, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, butdo not preclude the presence or addition of one more other features,integers, steps, operations, element components, and/or groups thereof.

The descriptions of the various embodiments herein have been presentedfor purposes of illustration, but are not intended to be exhaustive orlimited to the embodiments disclosed. Many modifications and variationswill be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departingfrom the scope and spirit of the described embodiments. The terminologyused herein was chosen to best explain the principles of theembodiments, the practical application or technical improvement overtechnologies found in the marketplace, or to enable others of ordinaryskill in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein.

What is claimed:
 1. A solar module racking system comprising: a framecomprising a plurality of pre-wired receptacles for rapid assembly of aplurality of solar modules, the frame being configured to receive andmechanically support each module of the plurality of solar modules, theframe being configured to arrange the plurality of solar modules in afirst planar direction, in a second planar direction, and in a verticaldirection that is normal to the first and second planar directions, andeach of plurality of pre-wired receptacles individually and electricallyconnect each of the plurality of solar modules after insertion of thatmodule into the frame, wherein the solar module racking system providesat least a 2 by 1 by 1 configuration or a 1 by 2 by 1 configuration forthe plurality of solar modules corresponding to the first planardirection, the second planar direction, and the vertical direction,where a first module and a second module are arranged in the firstplanar direction or the second planar direction, respectively.
 2. Thesolar module racking system of claim 1, further comprising: a beamarrangement comprising at least one beam and configured to support theframe.
 3. The solar module racking system of claim 2, furthercomprising: a post mounted to a surface; and a cap mechanically coupledto the post and configured to accept the beam arrangement.
 4. The solarmodule racking system of claim 1, wherein the beam arrangement supportsthe frame and at least one second frame to provide at least a 2 by 1 by2 configuration or at least a 1 by 2 by 2 configuration for theplurality of solar modules where at least a third module and is arrangedin the vertical direction with respect to the first module and thesecond module.
 5. The solar module racking system of claim 1, whereinthe frame configured to receive a top loading of the plurality of solarmodules.
 6. The solar module racking system of claim 1, wherein theframe comprises one or more arms, each arm of the one or more arms beingconfigured to minimize internal shading onto the plurality of solarmodules.
 7. The solar module racking system of claim 1, wherein theframe comprises a slot and shelving system, a rail clamp system, a snapbutton and slot system, or a tracking system for receiving the pluralityof solar modules.
 8. The solar module racking system of claim 1, whereinthe frame is sealed by a perimeter mold along an outer edge of the eachof the first and second modules.
 9. The solar module racking system ofclaim 1, wherein the frame is sealed on a perimeter of the first andsecond modules by a screen, a water tight membrane, or an air filter.10. The solar module racking system of claim 1, wherein the framecomprises: a flange configured to mechanically support the plurality ofsolar modules; a tongue extending in the vertical direction from theframe; and a grooved clamp configured to fit onto the flange and securethe plurality of solar modules in the mechanically stacked verticaldirection.